Hip Dysplasia

Image of dog standing.

Hip dysplasia is a congenital disease that, in its more severe form, can eventually cause lameness and painful arthritis of the joints. It is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It can be found in many animals and, rarely, humans, but is common in many dog breeds, particularly the larger breeds.

In the normal anatomy of the hip joint, the thigh bone (femur) joins the hip in the hip joint, specifically the caput ossis femoris. The almost spherical end of the femur articulates with the hip bone acetabulum, a partly cartilaginous mold into which the caput neatly fits. It is important that the weight of the body is carried on the bony part of the acetabulum, not on the cartilage part, because otherwise the caput can glide out of the acetabulum, which is very painful. Such a condition also may lead to maladaptation of the respective bones and poor articulation of the joint. In dogs, the problem almost always appears by the time the dog is 18 months old. The defect can be anywhere from mild to severely crippling. It can cause severe osteoarthritis eventually.

Location

Find us on the map

Office Hours

Los Osos Office

Monday:

8:30 am-5:30 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-5:30 pm

Wednesday:

8:30 am-5:30 pm

Thursday:

8:30 am-5:30 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-5:30 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am-2:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonial

  • "I will always be grateful to Dr. Choy and her caring staff for saving the life of my beloved beagle, Hero. Hero was critically ill with pancreatitis; Dr. Choy quickly diagnosed and treated Hero, as well as arranging for Hero's care during evening hours. She was candid and encouraging. She monitored Hero's recovery with meticulous care. The Cohen family thanks you, Dr. Choy!"
    - Jayne Cohen Los Osos, CA